Gas Shortage Sparks Autorickshaw Roadblock in Chattogram

A severe gas shortage triggered protests in Chattogram early Friday as CNG-powered autorickshaw drivers blocked the Sholashahar road also temporarily halting traffic between Muradpur and Gate No. 2.

The crisis stems from disrupted liquefied natural gas (LNG) unloading at Maheshkhali’s floating terminals due to adverse sea conditions. Consequently, the national grid's supply plummeted from 1,100 million cubic feet per day (MMCFD) to approximately 400 MMCFD.

Karnaphuli Gas Distribution Company Limited (KGDCL) officials reported that Chattogram requires 350 MMCFD daily for normal operations but supply fell to just 180 MMCFD on Thursday. Beyond transport, this sharp decline has disrupted local industrial production and left residential households struggling.

The shortage has severely impacted the city's transport sector, which relies on roughly 25,000 running autorickshaws operated by over 35,000 drivers working in shifts. Since Tuesday the long queues have paralyzed local filling stations.

Driver Shamshur Rahman highlighted the desperate situation for transport workers, noting he has been unable to work for two days due to the lack of fuel. Despite earning no income, drivers remain obligated to pay daily vehicle rents to owners, pushing them to protest in the streets. Meanwhile, staff at local pumps including the Fossil Filling Station stated that they are helpless and cannot assist until pipeline pressure normalizes.

Panchlaish Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Jahedul Islam confirmed that police intervened shortly after the protests began, successfully negotiating with the frustrated drivers to clear the blockade and restore normal traffic flow.